US$4,6m building plans approved by BCC

Nqobile Bhebhe, Zimpapers Business Hub

PROSPECTS for Bulawayo’s construction industry appear promising, following the local authority’s approval of building plans worth US$4,6 million in April alone — a clear indication of growing interest in the city’s property and infrastructure sectors.

According to the latest report from the Environmental Management and Engineering Department, the City of Bulawayo processed a total of 697 building plans during the month under review.

Of these, 316 plans completed the review process, with 176 receiving approval at a combined value of US$4 613 365. The remaining 140 were referred back for corrections, while 381 plans remain under consideration in other departments.

“This marks a 2,32 percent increase in the number of approved plans compared to March 2025,” reads part of the report.

New submissions also surged, with 334 plans valued at US$6 320  804 lodged with the council in April — representing a significant 56,07 percent rise compared to the previous month. These submissions generated potential revenue of US$63 208,04 in plan submission fees.

Building inspection activity mirrored the growth in proposed construction projects, with 1 659 inspections conducted in April — an 11,87 percent increase from March. 

These inspections led to the issuance of 75 occupation certificates. Additionally, 33 dilapidated structures were assessed for compliance, and four public buildings underwent safety evaluations.

In total, inspections and related operations generated an estimated US$10 635 in potential revenue for the council.

The city’s construction boom is also stimulating growth in related sectors, with rising demand for hardware, cement, steel and finishing materials. Real estate agents and property developers are expected to benefit from the increasing number of approved projects.

Local contractors and artisans — including bricklayers, plumbers and electricians — are also capitalising on the boom, resulting in more job opportunities and broader economic benefits for the city.